Positioning:
Essential resource for owners and mechanics working on a classic and highly sought-after Harley-Davidson model. Targets enthusiasts and restorers.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides critical, detailed information specific to the 1966 Shovelhead FL, filling a void for those seeking authentic repair and maintenance knowledge for this iconic motorcycle.
Target Audience:
Harley-Davidson owners, restorers, classic motorcycle mechanics, and vintage vehicle enthusiasts.
Uniqueness:
Focuses on the specific nuances and components of the 1966 Electra Glide FL, including the early Shovelhead engine and 4-speed transmission of that era.
Primary Coverage:
Service, Repair, Workshop
Estimated Page Count:
Variable, typically 300-600 pages for comprehensive manuals of this era
Type:
Service Repair Workshop Manual
Format:
Likely printed reproduction or Digital (PDF)
Engine:
Full overhaul, diagnostics, tuning, carburetor service, ignition system, oil pump, primary drive.
Transmission:
4-speed constant mesh gearbox overhaul, clutch service, shifter linkage, lubrication.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, charging system (generator), battery maintenance, lighting, ignition switch, starter system.
Frame And Suspension:
Front fork (leading link or telescopic depending on specific FL sub-model), rear shock absorbers, wheel bearing service, steering head bearing adjustment.
Brakes:
Drum brake system service, adjustment, and relining (front and rear).
Fuel System:
Fuel tank removal and cleaning, fuel line routing, carburetor (e.g., Linkert or early Keihin) disassembly, cleaning, and adjustment.
Bodywork:
Fender mounting, fairing (if equipped), saddlebag attachment, seat removal and installation.
Maintenance:
Regular servicing, lubrication points, tire pressure checks, chain adjustment (if applicable), filter replacements.
Repair:
Complete engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, component replacement, troubleshooting guides.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnosing common problems, identifying causes, and providing solutions for various systems.
Diagnostics:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for electrical and mechanical issues.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts.
Digital Format Quality:
High-resolution scans or recreated digital files, ensuring legibility of text and diagrams. Searchable text functionality is highly desirable.
Print Quality:
Professional printing on durable paper stock suitable for workshop environments. Clear, crisp reproduction of diagrams and text.
Binding Type:
Professional binding (e.g., perfect binding, spiral binding) that allows the manual to lay flat for easy use during repairs.
Paper Type:
Heavyweight paper stock to withstand grease, oil, and frequent handling in a workshop setting.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, OHV (Overhead Valve)
Engine Displacement:
74 cubic inches (1213 cc)
Engine Name Designation:
Shovelhead (due to the shovel-like shape of the rocker boxes)
Bore X Stroke:
Approximately 3.4375 in x 4.125 in (87.3 mm x 104.8 mm)
Horsepower Estimated:
Approximately 55-60 HP (actual figures varied and were not always precisely published for this era)
Torque Estimated:
Approximately 70-75 ft-lbs (actual figures varied)
Carburetor Type:
Typically Linkert M-series or early Keihin butterfly carburetor.
Fuel Type:
Leaded gasoline, typically 90-octane or higher.
Ignition Type:
Battery and Coil, points ignition system.
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 3 quarts (2.8 liters) for engine oil, plus primary chaincase oil.
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson recommended straight-weight mineral oil (e.g., SAE 50 or SAE 60) or specialized motorcycle oil of that era.
Transmission Type:
4-speed, constant mesh, foot-shift, hand-clutch lever operation.
Optional Transmissions:
None standard for this model year and configuration.
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-plate, cable-operated.
Primary Drive:
Duplex chain drive to the transmission.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Typically Harley-Davidson's primary drive lubricant or equivalent.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 60.2 inches (1529 mm)
Length:
Approximately 90.1 inches (2289 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approximately 625 lbs (283 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not typically specified as a GVWR but rather a gross load capacity.
Front Tire Size:
Typically 3.50-19
Rear Tire Size:
Typically 4.00-18
Wheel Type:
Spoked wheels, chrome or painted finish.
Wheelbase Measurement Method:
Center of front axle to center of rear axle.
Safety Ratings:
Motorcycles of this era were not subjected to standardized crash testing in the way modern vehicles are. Safety focus was on braking effectiveness and stability.
Braking System:
Dual leading shoe drum brake (front), single leading shoe drum brake (rear). Operated by foot pedal for rear, hand lever for front.
Lighting:
Headlight, tail light, brake light, turn signals (front and rear), and sometimes passing lamps.
Frame Construction:
Steel tube frame, providing structural integrity and mounting points for all components.
Suspension Damping:
Hydraulic damping in front fork and rear shock absorbers to control suspension movement and maintain tire contact with the road.
Infotainment System:
None. This era of motorcycle features basic instrumentation: speedometer, ammeter, oil pressure light (if equipped), and indicator lights.
Driver Assistance Features:
None. Rider is fully responsible for operation and control.
Connectivity Features:
None. Mechanical and electrical systems are self-contained.
Oil Change Interval:
Recommended every 2,000-3,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. Primary chaincase oil change is also critical.
Tune Up Interval:
Periodic adjustments to ignition timing, carburetor, and valve lash are essential, often based on mileage or performance indicators (e.g., every 5,000-10,000 miles).
Major Overhaul Considerations:
Engine and transmission rebuilds are typically performed based on mileage (e.g., 50,000+ miles) or symptoms of wear and performance degradation.
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 50 or SAE 60 straight-weight mineral oil. Avoid modern multi-viscosity or synthetic oils unless specifically formulated for vintage V-twins.
Primary Chaincase Oil Specification:
Harley-Davidson Primary Chain Lubricant or equivalent. Capacity typically around 1 quart.
Transmission Oil Specification:
Harley-Davidson recommended gear oil (e.g., SAE 80W-90) or specific motorcycle transmission fluid.
Fork Oil Specification:
Typically SAE 10W or 15W fork oil, capacity specific to front fork design.
Engine Wear:
Valve seat recession (due to leaded fuel), oil leaks from crankcase and rocker boxes, premature cam follower wear.
Transmission Reliability:
Bearing failures, shifting mechanism wear, potential for neutral lock-out issues.
Electrical System:
Generator output issues, voltage regulator problems, aging wiring harness leading to intermittent faults.
Carburetor Performance:
Linkert carburetors require precise adjustment; wear can lead to poor idling and fuel mixture issues. Early Keihin carburetors also require tuning.
Frame And Suspension:
Steering head bearing adjustments, worn fork bushings, shock absorber degradation.
Part Availability Notes:
Many original parts are scarce; reproduction parts are available for common wear items. Specialized knowledge for sourcing rare original components.
Brand Founding:
Harley-Davidson Motor Company founded in 1903.
Motorcycle Iconography:
A cornerstone of American motorcycle culture, known for its V-twin engines and touring capabilities.
Electra Glide Introduction:
The Electra Glide model line was introduced in 1965, replacing the Hydra-Glide.
Shovelhead Engine Introduction:
The Shovelhead engine was introduced in 1966, replacing the Panhead engine.
1966 Significance:
The 1966 model year marks the debut of the Shovelhead engine and the first year for the Electra Glide designation.
Manufacturing Location:
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
Production Period Shovelhead:
1966-1984
Collectibility:
Highly collectible vintage motorcycle, particularly well-maintained examples.